DAC kabel BlueOptics DAC-QSFP-100G-3M-BL 3 m QSFP28 samec/samec

The BlueOptics DAC-QSFP-100G-3M-BL is a 3-meter direct attach copper (DAC) cable with QSFP28 male-to-male connectors designed for short-distance high-speed links in data centers and network racks. It implements the 100GBase-CR4 electrical interface over twinax copper with 26 AWG conductors and is suitable for connecting switches, routers and storage systems that support QSFP28 passive DAC links. The cable supports Ethernet, FCoE, Fibre Channel and InfiniBand applications at up to 100 Gbit/s over a 3 m reach and follows MSA-compliant mechanical and electrical specifications.

Advantages

The passive QSFP28 to QSFP28 design provides low latency and very low power consumption, making it suitable for high-density rack deployments. The 26 AWG twinax construction delivers reliable signal integrity for short-reach 100G connections while keeping material and operating costs lower than active optical solutions. The cable is built to industry MSA guidelines and is manufactured using high-quality components to offer consistent compatibility with major hardware platforms that accept 100GBase-CR4 passive DACs.

Suitable for

• Interconnects between adjacent rack switches and top-of-rack switches
• Direct links between routers, switches and storage arrays supporting QSFP28
• Short-reach 100G aggregation and spine-leaf network segments
• Environments requiring low latency and low-power 100G links

Key specifications

• Connector type: QSFP28 male to QSFP28 male
• Length: 3 meters
• Cable type: Passive twinax copper (DAC)
• Conductor gauge: 26 AWG
• Supported protocols: 100G Ethernet, FCoE, Fibre Channel, InfiniBand (up to 100 Gbit/s)
• Compliance: MSA-compliant mechanical and electrical characteristics

How to use

Install the DAC by inserting each QSFP28 connector into the corresponding QSFP28 port on the devices to be linked. Verify that both endpoints support passive QSFP28 DACs and the 100GBase-CR4 electrical interface according to the device documentation. Ensure connectors are aligned before seating to avoid damage to the port. No external power or transceiver modules are required; the cable transmits electrical signals directly over twinax conductors for short-distance connectivity.

Recommendations

For reliable operation, use this 3 m DAC for connections within the same rack or between adjacent racks. Confirm host equipment compatibility with passive 100G QSFP28 DACs and follow manufacturer guidance on port settings and firmware versions. Avoid tight bends and mechanical stress on the cable; maintain the cable bend radius recommended by the hardware vendor to preserve signal integrity and prolong service life.